Creamy Ground Beef Orzo is a hearty and comforting one-pan meal that combines tender orzo pasta, savory ground beef, and a rich, creamy sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish offers a satisfying blend of flavors and textures that the whole family will love.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

ground beeforzo pastabeef brothheavy creamoniongarlicbutterparmesan cheesespinach (optional)olive oilpaprikaItalian seasoningcrushed red pepper flakes (optional)salt and pepper

directions

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.

Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until softened.

Stir in the orzo pasta and toast it lightly for 1-2 minutes.

Pour in the beef broth and bring to a simmer. Cover and cook, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.

Reduce heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, butter, and parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.

Season with paprika, Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper to taste.

Fold in spinach if using, and cook until wilted.

Serve hot, garnished with extra parmesan if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 20 minutesTotal time: 30 minutes

Variations

Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.

Add mushrooms or peas for extra veggies.

Use cheddar or mozzarella cheese for a different flavor profile.

Try adding a splash of white wine with the broth for added depth.

Make it spicy with extra crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Small pasta like couscous or small shells can work, but orzo gives the best creamy texture.

Is it necessary to toast the orzo?

Toasting enhances the nutty flavor, but you can skip this step if pressed for time.

Can I freeze Creamy Ground Beef Orzo?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it. Reheat with added liquid to restore creaminess.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

Half-and-half or whole milk with a little extra butter can be used, but the sauce will be less rich.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Use a dairy-free cream substitute and omit the parmesan or use a vegan cheese alternative.

How do I make it gluten-free?

Use gluten-free orzo or small gluten-free pasta varieties and check that your broth is gluten-free.

Conclusion

Creamy Ground Beef Orzo is a quick, satisfying, and versatile dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. With just one pan and simple ingredients, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time that everyone will ask for again and again.